Christmas in Goa

Christmas is celebrated vigorously in the old Portugese colony of Goa. The many grand churches and cathedrals that cover the region can barely contain festivities that spill onto the streets as people exchange gifts, decorate buildings and bake delicious cakes and puddings.

There are many Christians in Goa, a legacy of the Portuguese, and there is a fair degree of harmony between the Christian and Hindu communities. Christmas is celebrated here with similar enthusiasm to Diwali. During the festive season, just as in Europe but without the snow, glittering Christmas trees adorn street corners and marketplaces, while shops and homes sparkle with decorations.

Everyone enjoys the festivities, but for the devout the celebration begins on Christmas Eve with the singing of carols and midnight mass in a number of churches. There are also church services on Christmas Day itself. After that, the rest of the day is devoted to family get-togethers, opening presents and, of course, eating.